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Isoproterenol

Prescription
Non-Selective Beta Adrenergic Agonist
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Non-selective beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic agonist with no alpha activity. Increases heart rate, contractility, and conduction velocity (positive chronotropy, inotropy, dromotropy) and causes bronchodilation and vasodilation.

At a glance

Class
Non-Selective Beta Adrenergic Agonist
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature; protect from light; discard if pink or brown (oxidized)

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for complete (third-degree) AV block as bridge to pacemaker placement, refr
Dose
0.04–0.08 mcg/kg
Route
IV CRI
Frequency
Continuous infusion
🐈

Cat

Same indications as dogs
Dose
0.04–0.08 mcg/kg
Route
IV CRI
Frequency
Continuous

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature; protect from light; discard if pink or brown (oxidized)

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Continuous ECGHeart rate (target increase 30–40% from baseline)Blood pressureSigns of arrhythmia

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Propranolol
contraindicated
Non-selective beta-blocker completely antagonizes isoproterenol's beta-1 and beta-2 effects, rendering it therapeutically useless.
Management: NEVER combine. If patient on propranolol develops complete heart block requiring isoproterenol, propranolol must be discontinued first or glucagon used as bridge.

Major — 1

Digoxin
major
Isoproterenol increases myocardial excitability and automaticity. In digitalized myocardium, this greatly increases risk of fatal ventricular arrhythmias.
Management: Use extreme caution. If isoproterenol needed in patient on digoxin, continuous ECG monitoring mandatory. Consider temporary pacing instead.

Brands

Other markets

Isuprel

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Isoproterenol?
Isoproterenol is a non-selective beta adrenergic agonist used in pets. Non-selective beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic agonist with no alpha activity. Increases heart rate, contractility, and conduction velocity (positive chronotropy, inotropy, dromotropy) and causes bronchodilation and vasodilation.
›What is Isoproterenol used for in pets?
Isoproterenol is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for complete (third-degree) AV block as bridge to pacemaker placement, refr; Same indications as dogs.
›What is the Isoproterenol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Isoproterenol is typically dosed as follows — Used for complete (third-degree) AV block as bridge to pacemaker placement, refr: 0.04–0.08 mcg/kg IV CRI Continuous infusion. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Isoproterenol dose for cats?
For cats, Isoproterenol is typically dosed as follows — Same indications as dogs: 0.04–0.08 mcg/kg IV CRI Continuous. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Isoproterenol need a prescription?
Yes. Isoproterenol is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →